Types of divorces and how long they might take

Virginians who are wanting to get divorced might wonder how long they should expect their cases to take. The length of a divorce will depend on how the process is completed.

People who are able to file their divorce papers on their own together may expect the process to take a few months. However, this is not a good method for people who have children together or those who have disputes over how their property should be divided. People who are going through an amicable divorce but who still have some issues that they need to work out may choose to mediate their divorces with the help of a mediator. Mediated divorce cases may be fairly quick if the couples are able to negotiate. If they are not, the divorces may still drag on for long periods of time.

Divorce arbitration is a way in which couples can have an arbitrator decide the issues on which they are unable to agree. People may also try to reach negotiated settlements with the help of their lawyers. Finally, if people cannot agree, they may litigate their divorce cases through court. A judge will then make decisions about such things as property division, child custody and visitation, child support and spousal support.

People who want to get divorced might want to consult with family law attorneys before they file their petitions. An attorney may advise his or her clients about the financial and other documents necessary to complete the case. Attorneys may draft the petitions and make certain that they are properly served to their clients’ spouses. They might also negotiate with their clients’ spouses to try to facilitate negotiated settlements. Attorneys may help their clients to minimize the emotional conflicts that may be involved in their divorces so that the process might be more amicable.